35 best business
ideas that you
can start today
Sick of seeing the same old business ideas everywhere you look? Ready to start something new and exciting in 2023? We've got you covered!
In this article...
- 35 best business ideas that you can start today
- 1. Dog walker
- 2. Home bakery
- 3. Cleaning business
- 4. Car cleaning business
- 5. Music teacher
- 6. Computer help
- 7. Animal sitter
- 8. Personal shopping
- 9. Tour guide
- 10. Workshops
- 11. DJ
- 12. Mobile car wash
- 13. Personal trainer
- 14. Private ski instructor
- 15. Meal prep service
- 16. Home chef
- 17. Christmas tree delivery
- 18. Biking tour
- 19. Private museum tour guide
- 20. Bar crawl host
- 21. Smart home installer
- 22. Interior designer
- 23. Window cleaning service
- 24. Moving company
- 25. Plant watering service
- 26. Dance instructor
- 27. Boot camp instructor
- 28. Running club
- 29. Private swimming instructor
- 30. Pizza pop-up
- 31. Champagne delivery
- 32. Language coach
- 33. Personal assistant
- 34. Grocery shopper
- 35. Lemonade stand
We've searched high and low, and asked our community for their best suggestions for fresh and profitable business ideas for the new year. These aren't just any old concepts - they're real, successful ideas that your customers will love.
And the best part? Vev has created free software that makes it easy to get started with over 100 of these ideas. Just claim your free store and start a new adventure today!
35 best business ideas that you can start today
Here is a list of 35 innovative business ideas you can start today. Which one will you give a try?
1. Dog walker
The pandemic was rough for everyone. A lot of people welcomed a cute bundle of fluff into their homes. All was good when we were all working from home, but offices are opening up slowly.
Some companies require people to be back one or two days a week, while others require that workers are back for the full five days. As you can imagine, a huge opportunity to help people out and make good money along the way.
Pros: Lot of repeat orders as soon as you establish a network. Dog owners are generally pretty flexible, and they generally only make use of your services during traditional ‘9-to-5’ business hours. And you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors!
Cons: It’s a rain-or-shine type of job. You have to love dogs and be able to handle various dog sizes and personality types. Having a car might be required based on your location.
Tip: Promote your services at local dog parks and pet stores to find your first customers.
→ Start a dog-walking business 🐶
2. Home bakery
A lot of people really got into baking over the pandemic. I mean, who doesn’t love that sweet smell of freshly baked bread? If you’ve been on Instagram over the last couple of months, you see a lot of micro bakeries popping up.
As mundane as bread may feel, it’s becoming the craze that people are willing to splurge on. Make sure to have a beautiful Instagram page full of great-looking loaves of bread and other baked goods.
Take pre-orders to scale your business sustainably, and consider offering home delivery to make your offer even more irresistible.
Pros: Every day is a great day to sell your goods! Ability to be selling to both businesses and consumers. Especially businesses could bring a lot of recurring/stable orders.
Cons: In order to make a living out of it, you have to sell a lot of baked goods. Also, avoid this industry if you are not a morning person!
Tip: Ensuring that people place orders 24-48 hours in advance sets you apart from ‘normal’ bakeries that have to guess the demand for their products.
→ Start a home bakery 🧑🍳
3. Cleaning business
Starting a cleaning business can be a rewarding and lucrative business venture, especially if you enjoy cleaning and organizing. Besides, who doesn’t need their spaces cleaned and maintained?
This type of service is one that is sure to be around for a long time. A sizeable operation and quality work can land high-value contracts in the future. From homes to sports arenas, there’s plenty of work to be done.
Pros: Cleaning businesses typically have low startup costs, as you only need a few supplies and equipment to get started. You will have the flexibility to set your own schedule and choose which clients you want to work with. Cleaning services are always in demand, and this demand has grown significantly since 2020.
Cons: Cleaning can be physically demanding work, and you may be on your feet for long periods of time. With great demand comes great competition, so you will need to differentiate your business and market your services effectively. Growth and advancement are only as scalable as the size of your operation.
Tip: Specialize in a particular type of cleanings, such as green cleaning or post-construction cleaning, to differentiate your business from competitors. Develop clear policies and procedures not only for the cleaning services rendered but also payments and cancellations.
→ Start a cleaning business 🧼
4. Car cleaning business
Have a love for cars, a keen eye for detail, and see satisfaction in taking something from grit to glam? Many people are willing to pay for a thorough and professional car cleaning, especially if they don’t have the time or expertise to do it themselves.
Whether it’s from winter road salt or just a good ole fashioned mudding trip, cars and trucks get dirty fast. Lots of dirty cars mean lots of business opportunities here.
Pros: Great potential for high margin, high profit, and recurring revenue. This type of work can be done just about anywhere. Word of mouth spreads very fast among the car communities, and therefore hard work and effort will be greatly rewarded.
Cons: Depending on the services offered, you may need specialized equipment and supplies. Quality products like waxes and polishes are almost non-negotiable. Car cleaning may be more seasonal depending on where you live, creating a lull in business.
Tip: Offer a unique combination of services to attract more clients in this competitive niche. Consider making your car cleaning service mobile. A mobile car care service is likely to get more business because a client's car can be cleaned while they are busy with other tasks. Be sure to share plenty of before and after results on social media accounts.
→ Start a car cleaning business 🚗
5. Music teacher
Share your passion, knowledge, and skills with others in the world of music! Being a music teacher requires dedication and hard work, but with the right attitude and approach, it can be a rewarding career.
You will watch your students grow and can share in their successes. Music teachers may also find themselves in a position to work with their students to produce new projects offering a potential secondary stream of income.
Pros: Teaching music will offer a variety of experiences and students alike. Music students can include children, adults, and seniors. No formal licensing is required to start teaching music.
Cons: A potential for low pay exists, especially in the early stages of your career. Music teachers may also have to work long hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate their students’ schedules.
Tip: Pursue ongoing professional development opportunities to stay up to date on best practices and new teaching techniques. Consider specializing in a particular instrument or genre of music to differentiate yourself from other music teachers and appeal to a specific group of students. Create a positive and supportive learning environment that encourages creativity and promotes personal growth.
→ Start a music teaching business 🎸
6. Computer help
Telework increases, old age, poor equipment standards, and even just common dust all contribute to the necessity for help with computers.
People of all ages use computers, but only a small portion truly understand how they work and how to fix/maintain them. If you’re technologically savvy, helping others solve issues with their computer can be a hustle that turns to a full-blown career.
Pros: Most computer help that is required can be completed remotely and in a short span of time. Quick-to-solve problems can generate some serious income because you aren’t being limited by an hourly rate. Assisting others with computers can also be a learning experience that helps you develop your problem-solving and communication skills.
Cons: Helping others with computers can consume substantial amounts of time. If you are providing ongoing support or working with individuals who are not familiar with technology, be prepared for long hours. There may also be communication barriers when working with less tech-savvy clients that make it hard to diagnose the issues or to explain resolutions if providing remote support.
Tip: Be careful when providing support, as your clients' property and personal information are at risk of loss. Make sure you have the necessary understanding of the technical concepts and a strong foundation in the relevant software and hardware. Try to explain all steps in the process as simply as possible and avoid technical jargon. Keep track of the problems you encounter and the solutions you implement so as to save time when facing similar problems in the future.
→ Start a computer help business 👩💻
7. Animal sitter
Also known as pet-sitter. It’s like babysitting, but the baby is furry (unless the pet is hairless!) You’ll have the opportunity to spend significantly more time with the pets, unlike a simple walking business.
Some animal-sitting gigs are check-ins, whole-day events, or possibly even overnight. If you just love to care for animals and want to take that passion a step further, consider doing it for others in your area.
With telework positions on the decline as people return to work and an increase in pet adoption, there is plenty of opportunity to be an animal sitter.
Pros: Big flexibility in time and type of animals encountered. Potential for included housing during your work hours if the client needs your service while they are on vacation. Sitting for animals can be a relaxed and laid-back gig allowing you to be paid without breaking your back.
Cons: There is a risk of injury when working with animals, especially if you are not familiar with their behavior or if they are prone to aggression. Sitting for animals with behavioral issues can create emotional challenges.
Tip: Research competitors in your area to see what other services are offered so you can tailor-fit your offering for the best earning potential. Acquire a variety of equipment and supplies such as leashes, toys, and possibly even first aid supplies. Having backup items to engage with or handle the animals is recommended in case the owner doesn’t have them.
8. Personal shopping
Did somebody say SHOPPING SPREE?! We did! Want to know the best part? You won’t have to spend a dime. So long as you have reliable transportation and the desire to spend your time in and out of stores, there is plenty of opportunity here.
Our economy continues to reward speedy checkout and delivery. Amazon has grown massively over the years, and their product offerings along with that growth.
However, they haven’t gotten around to local stores, and that’s where you come in. People want things but oftentimes would rather have them delivered.
Pros: Easy to start business model. Apps like DoorDash, Postmates, and Grubhub get you connected to clients fast, meaning you can start today. You’ll be able to set your own hours and choose when you do and don’t want to be out there shopping. You’ll also have new experiences and opportunities to be social while doing your shopping.
Cons: Delivery apps aren’t accepted by all stores. Rural areas may see lower rates of business due to the lack of an abundance of stores.
Tip: Keep good and open lines of communication with your clients through all stages of the shopping process. If the desired item is not available, be sure to ask the client how they wish to proceed with the transactions.
Document purchases, sales, and locations not only for tax filings but to present to your customer in the event of any disputes.
9. Tour guide
How do you feel about the city you live in? What about your hometown? If you answered, “I LOVE IT!” then consider sharing all the best parts with others.
People are always traveling across the country, venturing into new states and towns. However, it’s almost always up to the traveler to figure out what to do in those new areas.
Show tourists all the best spots to eat and historic landmarks, and visit some beautiful scenery for photo ops and be rewarded for your knowledge.
Pros: Access to new travel opportunities by being able to get a job in almost any town/ city across the country. Being a tour guide can also be a learning experience that helps you develop your communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
Cons: Tour guides may work long hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate their clients’ schedules.
Tip: Consider specializing in cultural, food, or adventure tours to differentiate yourself from other guides. Network with travel industry professionals such as hotel/flight services to access audiences that are new to the area.
Keep abreast of new developments and events in your area and consider offering additional services to stay competitive.
10. Workshops
Chances are that you know something most people don’t. Outside of schooling, opportunities to learn things hands-on in a professional environment are in demand but limited supply.
With a workshop, one can learn valuable trade-specific skills (cooking, carpentry, tailoring, and all the niches in between) that might not be common in your area.
So, if you have a set of skills that you enjoy and think other people might like, then hosting a workshop could be a great fit for you.
Pros: Many niches allow for workshops to be hosted online. This allows you to gain a following around live events and also have saved recordings to teach more students in the future.
In-person workshops allow you to deliver valuable attention to each client with respect to your given niche.
Cons: Due to potential competition, it may be difficult to stay competitive. Education loses value after it is learned, and therefore you will need to provide consistent value to your clients to create recurring revenue.
Tip: Consider hosting live workshops with a personal group. Record the live session workshops that you host. Edit and redistribute this content to build a brand around your niche. You will develop a solid e-learning platform that will serve now and long into the future.
→ Start your workshop business 👨🏫
11. DJ
A live crowd, party favors, food, and drink galore. Wait...Something is missing. Oh, right! Music! But who will supply it? Possibly you.
If you have a passion for music and a knack for getting the party going, consider becoming a DJ. With social gatherings back on the rise, there are ample opportunities to break into this fast-paced industry.
Pros: Being a DJ creates an avenue to express yourself creatively through music selection and mixing. Different venues and events allow for the opportunity to explore meet new people and provide a sense of fun and accompanied with accomplishment.
Cons: Income as a DJ may be unstable and difficult to predict. The market for being a DJ is competitive, and it may be difficult to stand out and find steady work.
Tip: Like any skill, becoming a good DJ takes practice. Spend time learning how to mix and experiment with different styles of music.
Create a demo mix or DJ set that showcases your skills and can be shared with potential clients or venues. Keep up with new music and trends in the industry to stay relevant and innovative in your sets.
12. Mobile car wash
We referenced mobile car washing previously on the topic of car cleaning services. If we were to take that a bit further, this is what clients are craving — the simplicity of the service and lack of interference in their routine.
You’ll be able to offer a service completely zero-contact. In the current age, this is a prime service. Focus on the fine art of a gleaming, freshly cleaned car and satisfied clients, and you’ll have a wonderfully strong brand.
Pros: No contact offering allows for instant payments. You’ll be able to book clients online, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your bookings into your schedule.
Clients will love the fact that you come to them, allowing them to continue their day to day life while getting a service they’ll love.
Cons: This can be a weather-dependent service. Although car washing is very important during the winter, you will be spending your time out in unfavorable conditions vs. being in a detailing bay. This can limit availability and, thus potential earnings.
Tip: Take advantage of favorable weather conditions for specific product offerings. Try to schedule full cleaning when weather is accommodating and weather preventatives prior to unfavorable conditions.
13. Personal trainer
You’re at the gym doing your regular workouts when suddenly you see a barbell about to crush someone’s neck because they put too much weight on the bar and don’t have a spotter.
Do you have an innate prerogative to rush over, help them, and possibly save their life? If so, then being a personal trainer may be a lucrative business endeavor for you.
You’ll spend more time in the gym and be able to impact the lives of others, all the while making a decent income.
Pros: Personal trainers often report high levels of job satisfaction due to the sense of accomplishment they feel when their clients make progress.
You’ll also be able to take advantage of training sessions to reinforce your own goals and beliefs around training.
Cons: There will be added physical demand. As a personal trainer, you will often demonstrate exercises and may need to assist clients with proper form.
You may also have to take on a wide array of clients to produce a reasonable amount of income.
Tip: Obtaining a personal training certification from a reputable organization is important for establishing credibility and finding work as a trainer.
Attend fitness events and meet other trainers and industry professionals to expand your network and find work opportunities.
14. Private ski instructor
Are you an experienced skier looking for new opportunities to share your passion for the slopes? Do you thrive on helping others improve their skills and experience the joy of skiing?
If so, there are fantastic opportunities to become a private ski instructor. You’ll also likely get free access to the slopes and be able to double down on your passion in your free time.
Pros: Work in a beautiful outdoor setting and enjoy the benefits of being in the mountains. Reinforce your own skills as you ski alongside others of all skill levels.
Cons: Being a ski instructor is seasonal work, and the only potential way to avoid this is to travel around to areas that are currently experiencing the necessary conditions to ski.
Tip: Get footage of your talent and showcase it on social media to build rapport around your talent. Consider planning trips in advance based on the seasonal rotation to keep yourself ahead of the curve and book clients prior to your travel dates.
15. Meal prep service
We all know someone who absolutely refuses to cook, or flat out doesn’t even know how. Perhaps the people we know just don’t have the time to cook. But, you do, right?
You might even say that creating visually appealing meals that also satisfy the palette brings you the highest levels of joy. With a world that is growing ever impatient, having meals prepped in advance becomes a very appealing luxury.
Meal prepping has taken off over the last 5 years, not just as a personal benefit but as an entire industry. Join the revolution and make a solid income while doing it.
Pros: You’ll be able to work from the comfort of home or within an industry setting, the choice is completely yours. Also, since the meals are prepped in advance, you’ll have the option to set your own hours.
Cons: Not every client knows exactly what they want, and it very well may be up to you to make those decisions. You will have to be able to assess each client's needs and restrictions, meaning you may need to do specialized shopping or have certain equipment available.
If you are the purchaser of the food, there are also low margins in this style of business limiting potential income.
Tip: Look for clients who will provide all of the necessary materials so you will just be charging for your labor. Consider spending more time at the gym, as most avid trainers are always looking for better meal prep services.
16. Home chef
Similar to starting a meal prep service, being a home chef allows you to explore your culinary passions. If you get the highest form of satisfaction from a clean plate and a comment like, “that was the best dish I’ve had in my life” then being a home chef may be for you.
As families grow larger and time is limited, more people are looking to outsource their meals. Home chefs can provide personalized service, quality food, and save time for their clients simultaneously.
Pros: Most clients who hire home chefs have a sizable income and will pay a premium for a personal and professional level of service. This type of work can lead to a higher income than that of a regular restaurant chef.
As a home chef you’ll have the flexibility to move from home to home and experience a wide variety of cuisines.
Cons: Being a home chef may come with the challenges of irregular income as you will be compensated per client booked. There may also be a level of uncertainty in the food requested as well as specific time constraints.
Tip: Be sure to stay up-to-date on the latest cooking techniques and trends in the culinary industry. In addition to creating delicious meals, it’s important to also provide excellent customer service to ensure that your clients have a positive experience.
Consider allowing your clients to “order” their meals in advance so you have an opportunity to pre-prep. Do any necessary research and shopping in advance.
17. Christmas tree delivery
Christmas just isn't the same without a tree. Plenty of people make it a family affair to pick out a tree, take it home, and decorate it. What about those who have a small vehicle, or perhaps none at all?
Surely those with limited transport still deserve a tree. Bridge that gap by opening up a Christmas tree delivery service! This simple service business will surely bring in some extra cash during the holiday season.
Pros: Delivery of trees is just like any other delivery service and therefore is quite easy to start. Christmas trees are a popular holiday tradition, so there is likely to be a high demand for tree-delivery services
Cons: This is a business that is only active during the holiday season, so you will need to find other sources of income during the rest of the year.
There is also a risk that the trees could be damaged during delivery, which could lead to complaints and financial losses.
Tip: Invest in a sturdy and reliable vehicle and storage space to ensure that you can safely transport and store the trees. Consider working with a tree farm or supplier to ensure that you have a consistent and reliable source of trees.
18. Biking tour
Touring and fitness all wrapped into one great business model. This venture is sure to keep you active while providing a great new way to explore.
With more people joining the get-up and go revolution, there is ample opportunity to provide a wholesome experience to cyclists and tourists alike.
Pros: Combining biking with tourism will create new interactions, view breathtaking scenery, and keep you fit all at the same time. After initial startup costs, tour guides operate on a high margin leaving plenty of room for profits.
Cons: Start-up costs may be high due to needing a fleet of bikes, helmets, and other necessary gear.
Tip: Consider working with a bike shop to provide maintenance and repair services. Focus on a specific type of cycling, such as road cycling or mountain biking. Be sure to include routes for different skill levels to open your service to a wider array of clients.
19. Private museum tour guide
No, unfortunately, this isn’t the tour where the museum figures come to life and run rampant throughout the facility. However, you will be able to provide a much more personalized experience for a client.
Have you ever been on a museum tour, and the information is too generalized? Or your questions about certain exhibits don't get answered due to time constraints?
Well, you’re not alone here. Avid museum-goers are always trying to pique their curiosity, and you could be their ticket.
Pros: Explore your passion for art, history, or culture and share that passion with others in a one-on-one setting. Provide a personalized and in-depth experience of the museum and possibly gain access to areas of the museum that are not normally open to the public.
Cons: Your business will be dependent on the museum’s policies and procedures, and you may be subject to changes in their rules and regulations.
Tip: Establish relationships with museums and other cultural institutions in your area and work with them to develop tour offerings that are tailored to the interests of your clients.
20. Bar crawl host
Bar crawls can be a fun and social way to experience a city’s nightlife. Meet new people, share stories and experiences, and bring the party to different parts of your city!
If you know how to plan events and are a regular patron of the establishments in your city, then you can host a bar crawl event.
Pros: Predetermined routes and schedules set bound expectations of how long you’ll have to work. You may also be offered special discounts or promotions at each stop for bringing a group of patrons to a given establishment.
Cons: Risky business as excessive alcohol consumption can lead to injuries or other problems.
Tip: Consider creating themes around each crawl. Incentivize participants to dress up to follow a theme to create a more immersive experience. Have a designated driver or other safe transportation options available in the event of excessive alcohol consumption
21. Smart home installer
Let’s take handyman work into the 21st century with smart home installation. As technology advances, year over year, many new and interesting home-based products are brought to market.
With many of us now working from home, or even just wanting to control the events of the house while away, smart home tools are gaining massive popularity.
However, not everyone truly knows how to interconnect these devices and unlock their full potential. If you’re tech-savvy, handy with tools, and have good ole fashioned know-how, then you'll find being a smart home installer to be a lucrative gig.
Pros: Being a smart home installer involves staying up-to-date on the latest technologies and learning new skills. You will have an opportunity to advance yourself and your business simultaneously.
Cons: As with any installation profession, you’ll need to make sure you have the right tools and equipment, which can lead to a hefty startup cost.
Tip: Consider offering a package of smart home utilities like smart lights that connect to a voice assistant like Google Home. This will reduce the variety of tools and skills you will need while maximizing the per-job profits.
22. Interior designer
You’re doing it right now. Looking at online listings for houses and picturing how you’d change the paint scheme. Perhaps you’d rearrange the furniture to utilize spaces better or take advantage of natural lighting.
Well, maybe you aren’t, but if you are then interior design may be in your future. As an interior designer you will have the opportunity to be creative and use your artistic skills to create unique and innovative spaces.
Pros: You will have the opportunity to work with clients and help them create spaces that meet their needs and reflect their personal style.
Cons: There may be high stress associated. Dealing with clients, managing deadlines, and working within budgets are all stress-inducing constraints on interior designers.
Tip: Spend more time pre-planning with the clients to ensure that you understand all of their preferences, and you will be able to come to agreements on changes easier. Do a few test cases for family and friends by rearranging their flows and get some easy reviews to promote your new business.
23. Window cleaning service
From residential neighborhoods to city skyscrapers, every window eventually gets grimy. The seemingly simple task of window cleaning often goes without doing.
To climb ladders and work at heights isn’t for everyone, but for this reason, starting a window cleaning service can undoubtedly be lucrative.
Showcase your attention to detail, organizational skills, and interest in cleaning and maintenance while providing clients with a new window to see life through.
Pros: Low startup costs make window cleaning an easy-to-enter market with low risk. It is also very likely to generate recurring business as most people do not wish to perform this work themselves, but understand the value.
Cons: Physical risk of injury while working on ladders and at height. Your ability to work may also be impacted by adverse weather conditions, such as rain or extreme heat.
Tip: Since you’ll more than likely already be up on a ladder, consider offering adjacent services such as gutter cleaning or power washing to increase your income and appeal to a wider range of customers.
When starting do a couple jobs for free to get reviews and word-of-mouth marketing. Since window washing has a low barrier to entry, you won’t be spending much when performing these free services.
24. Moving company
Pick things up and put them down often? Moving companies are always in demand as people are always moving throughout the country.
Most of the time, the items are already packed away, and you’ll only be required to simply pick them up and put them in a truck.
A truck will take the items to the new location and you’ll unpack them. You’ll have the opportunity to get a nice workout and be paid to do so.
Pros: This is a business with a large opportunity for growth and expansion. As you get more clients you’ll be able to buy more trucks, and hire more movers to complete jobs concurrently.
Cons: As a moving company owner, you will be responsible for the safety of your employees and the items you are moving. This can make you vulnerable to potential liability issues.
Tip: Start with a rental van/box truck and take on small jobs like single-family homes or small offices to build rapport. As demand increases, be sure to hire reliable employees. As a moving company owner, it is important to hire reliable and skilled employees who can handle the physical demands of the job and provide excellent customer service.
25. Plant watering service
No strange requests, no heavy lifting, just beautiful days and plenty of plants! Have a green thumb?
Starting a plant watering service just might be the opportunity for you. Plants provide several benefits to both humans and surrounding nature.
It's in everyone’s best interest to keep our plants healthy and growing to create a healthier ecosystem.
Pros: There are virtually no startup costs here. You’ll have limited client / public interactions and can be paid to have a calm way of life that benefits both aesthetics and the environment.
Cons: Your ability to work may be impacted by adverse weather conditions, such as extreme rain/snowfall.
Tip: Areas governed by an HOA have regulations on the maintenance of property items like outdoor plants and grass. Consider working within these areas or contracting directly with an HOA to attract a larger customer base.
26. Dance instructor
When there’s an open space, and upbeat music do you rush at the opportunity to get up and dance? Have you been the person to pull a friend onto the dance floor despite their best efforts to avoid it like the plague?
Try your hand at giving dance lessons. Whether public or private, there are a large number of people who want to dance, but just can't figure it out.
As public spaces are opening up more and more, the opportunity is arising for people to get out there and shake their money makers. With your help, they could wow the crowd!
Pros: Dance lessons are popular among people of all ages and abilities, so there is often a demand for qualified dance instructors. You’ll also have the flexibility to work when you want with who you want.
Cons: Dance lessons can be physically demanding, as it may involve demonstrating dance steps and moves to students in a highly repetitive manner.
Tip: Investing in sound systems and mirrors will make your job easier and help you provide a better experience for your students.
Add camps and workshops to your offering to create a way for potential clients to get a taste of your style before making any commitments.
With the right strategy, these workshops will generate advanced interest and likely more recurring revenue.
27. Boot camp instructor
Starting a career as a boot camp instructor can be a fun and fulfilling choice for those passionate about fitness.
Working with highly motivated individuals, designing unique workout programs, building strong relationships with clients, and having the autonomy to build a business are all factors that make it an exciting career choice.
Pro: Starting a boot camp instructor business can be an enjoyable and fulfilling career choice. As an instructor, you can create unique and personalized workout programs, build strong relationships with clients, and be your own boss.
Con: Building a successful business in this space can be challenging as it relies heavily on your personal brand and reputation. Additionally, the physically demanding nature of the job can take a toll on your body over time.
Tip: To succeed as a boot camp instructor, it's important to have a deep understanding of fitness, establish a unique brand, and continually adapt and improve your business to stand out from the competition.
28. Running club
There is no requirement to be Forrest Gump and run across the country. However, most of us would like to have company during our running.
The external motivation oftentimes will lead to an increase in distance and speed over what we would have done independently.
Perhaps you have a few people you run with regularly, or you don’t need the external motivation, you could lead a running club.
Pros: There’s no startup costs here other than any marketing you may decide to do. You’ll have a group of people that will consistently internally motivate each other. You’ll be able to continue your activity routine while making some income.
Cons: Depending on how you structure your club you may have liability for any injuries that occur. You may also see some reduction in signups/attendance depending on the weather.
Tip: Try and get affiliate deals with your favorite sportswear brand or supplements. Having other offerings outside a monthly membership will create cross-sells and, thus another stream of income without any extra effort.
Structure your membership deals with a waiver of liability to avoid any situations where a less experienced runner becomes stressed/injured.
→ Start a running club 🏃♂️
29. Private swimming instructor
Swimming is a life-saving skill that everyone should know. However, due to the dangerous nature of the activity, one should be able to learn in a safe and supportive environment.
Swimming is not just a sport; it’s a form of exercise that can benefit your overall physical and mental well-being. Help others discover the joy of swimming and be rewarded for your efforts.
Pros: With private lessons, you can tailor the instruction to the specific needs and goals of the student. This allows you to focus on areas where the student needs the most help and ensure that they are making progress at their own pace.
Simultaneously, private lessons allow you to schedule lessons at times that are convenient for both you and the student.
Cons: Because private lessons are one-on-one, you can only work with a limited number of students at a time. This can make it difficult to earn a steady income if you don’t have a consistent stream of students.
Tip: Make sure you and the student are on the same page regarding goals, schedules, and expectations. Mix things up by using different teaching methods and activities to keep the student engaged and motivated.
Remember that learning to swim can be challenging, especially for beginners. Be patient and offer support to help the student feel comfortable and confident in the water.
30. Pizza pop-up
Pizza... the timeless food that we all know and love. Sometimes, however, we get tired of the same local delivery. Either they mess up an order, or it just isn’t the same as that “best slice” you had on vacation.
Well, why not bring the vacation to a local setting? Get locals saying things like, “Their authentic wood-fired pizzas gave us a taste of Italy in every bite.” You’ll gain a sense of achievement, and your customers will want more.
Pros: A pop-up can be a good way to test the market and gauge customer interest in your product before committing to a permanent location. This can be a good option for people who want to start a food business but don’t want to commit to a brick-and-mortar location.
Cons: As a pop-up, you’ll only be able to operate for a limited time each day or week. This can make it difficult to generate a consistent income. A pop-up typically doesn’t have much space for seating, which can be a drawback if you want to offer dine-in service.
Tip: Use the best ingredients you can afford to ensure that your pizzas are of the highest quality. Use social media and other marketing channels to get the word out about your pop-up. Partner with delivery services to compensate for the potential lack of dine-in offerings.
31. Champagne delivery
Popped all the bottles at the club, but the party isn’t over? Who is going to save the day and allow the night to continue? That club will probably comp your table if you were able to get them more of the bubbly.
Or perhaps you’ve noticed an influx of weddings, graduations, or similar celebrations. Well, what’s a celebration without a cork to pop?
Champagne delivery certainly beats having to run off to the store yourself and possibly miss a cherished moment.
Pros: Champagne is often associated with special occasions, such as weddings and New Year’s Eve celebrations, which means there is likely to be a steady demand for your service.
With many different types of champagne, you could choose to specialize in a particular type or style of champagne, such as organic or biodynamic.
Cons: A champagne delivery service will typically only be in demand during certain times of the year, such as holidays and special occasions. This can make it difficult to generate a consistent income.
Champagne can be expensive, which means you’ll need to charge higher prices to make a profit. This can make it more challenging to attract customers.
Tip: Consider partnering with local businesses, such as florists and event planners, to offer a comprehensive service for special occasions. To appeal to a wider range of customers, consider offering a range of prices to suit different budgets.
32. Language coach
Grammar freaks, this is your time to shine! A language coach works with people who are either learning a new language for personal or professional reasons, or they may work with people who are already proficient but want to improve their skills further.
Sometimes this line of work will involve learning or replacing an accent in order to land a specific job. Showcase your skills in a way where the comment section of Twitter won’t be mad at you for pointing out their obvious errors.
Pros: With the flexibility to set your own schedule, and specific language, accent, or grammatical offering, there are many different ways to make an income here.
Being a language coach is also something of high demand as people are always looking to move to new areas, learn new languages, or just seem more professional.
Cons: Depending on your location and the languages you specialize in, you may have a limited pool of potential clients. As a language coach, you’ll need to keep up with the latest teaching methods and best practices in order to stay competitive and effective.
Tip: By specializing in a particular language or type of instruction, you’ll be able to differentiate your business and appeal to a specific target market.
Specializing will also limit the amount of extra research you will need to keep up with trends.
33. Personal assistant
A master of Google Calendars. A purveyor of information. A person who is always looking for ways to enhance/ support the lives of others. This is the type of person who makes a fantastic personal assistant.
As businesses grow and expand, CEOs quickly realize that they cannot keep track of everything. In a capitalistic society where business is king, personal assistant demand is continually growing.
Pros: Depending on the type of personal assistant role you take on, you may have the flexibility to choose your own schedule and work with a variety of clients. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn new skills and gain experience in a variety of different fields.
Cons: Personal assistants are often hired on a contract or freelance basis, which means less job security than a traditional employee. Personal assistants may have limited opportunities for advancement within their roles.
Tip: Specializing in an area such as personal finance or event planning, you’ll be able to differentiate your business and command a higher rate.
Building strong relationships with your clients can help you retain business and build a strong reputation leading to other opportunities through the clients network.
34. Grocery shopper
You swore you had it all planned out. You’d bought the food, the favors, the decorations, and it’s showtime. You’re ready to start the big event.
But wait, something just isn’t right. See, you forgot how you’ll light the candles on the cake, or the sparklers. Or, perhaps you forgot the mustard for the build your own sandwich station.
This is where a grocery shop business comes in to settle the frustration. Instead of having to leave the event, potential clients can have this issue solved in a few clicks.
Pros: If you have reliable transportation, this is a low-entry-cost business to start. Potential business models exist to expand this business and create much more than just a side gig.
Cons: Safeguards may need to be placed for applicable delivery laws surrounding controlled substances. Applicable licenses may need to be obtained to deliver certain products limiting potential earnings.
Tip: Keep product offerings specialized to build trust around the offering before expanding.
Always check with local regulations before offering a specific item to be delivered. Invest in a secure way to transport items to avoid any damage liabilities, and consider offering delivery protection to ensure clients feel secure in your services.
35. Lemonade stand
Let us not forget the tried and true lemonade stand. If you have a busy neighborhood, most people are willing to support a pop-up lemonade stand near their homes.
To take it a step further, do you know of a busy street with a traffic light that seems to stay red forever?
A captive audience is usually a pretty easy sell for a beverage that is loved as much as lemonade. Get a good product, a good price point, and a great audience and show them that this business is still alive and well.
Pros: A lemonade stand requires minimal upfront investment, as you’ll only need to purchase ingredients and supplies. A lemonade stand can also be a good way for kids or young adults to learn about entrepreneurship and how to run a business.
With the right location and pricing, a lemonade stand can be a profitable enterprise, especially in the summer months.
Cons: A lemonade stand will typically only be in operation for a few hours each day, which can make it difficult to generate a consistent income. You’ll only be able to offer a limited range of products, such as lemonade and perhaps some snacks.
Tip: Develop a formula that will appeal to the masses. Not everyone likes super sugary drinks, or even sour. The right balance is key to a profitable lemonade stand.
Consider offering a range of flavor add-ons such as strawberry or watermelon. This will help diversify your product, where total product offerings will be limited.
In this article...
- 35 best business ideas that you can start today
- 1. Dog walker
- 2. Home bakery
- 3. Cleaning business
- 4. Car cleaning business
- 5. Music teacher
- 6. Computer help
- 7. Animal sitter
- 8. Personal shopping
- 9. Tour guide
- 10. Workshops
- 11. DJ
- 12. Mobile car wash
- 13. Personal trainer
- 14. Private ski instructor
- 15. Meal prep service
- 16. Home chef
- 17. Christmas tree delivery
- 18. Biking tour
- 19. Private museum tour guide
- 20. Bar crawl host
- 21. Smart home installer
- 22. Interior designer
- 23. Window cleaning service
- 24. Moving company
- 25. Plant watering service
- 26. Dance instructor
- 27. Boot camp instructor
- 28. Running club
- 29. Private swimming instructor
- 30. Pizza pop-up
- 31. Champagne delivery
- 32. Language coach
- 33. Personal assistant
- 34. Grocery shopper
- 35. Lemonade stand
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